Leo Atang Has Heavyweight Title Future, Says Eddie Hearn

After Atang’s second-round knockout in his U.S. debut, Hearn said Matchroom will develop the 19-year-old heavyweight over the next four to five years

Eddie Hearn says Matchroom has mapped out a four-to-five-year plan for Leo Atang despite the teenager’s impressive knockout win in his American debut. Hearn believes the British heavyweight has the tools to become a world champion but insists patience will be the key to his development.

“We’ve got a four or five year project with him,” Hearn said after the event. “That will include fighting in America definitely once a year. So, we’ll be pleased with that.”

Hearn believes Atang has the physical tools to become one of boxing’s next heavyweight stars, though he expects the teenager to continue filling out his frame before taking on tougher opposition.

“He’s 19 years old. He’s 235 pounds at the moment. He’s still got a lot of growing to do. Want to see him up around that 250 mark, but he’s got all the fundamentals, right? He’s very fast, got good footwork, good punch selection,” Hearn said.

Saturday’s victory came in Atang’s first appearance in the United States, an experience Hearn viewed as valuable beyond the result.

“Today was a great learning curve for him because it’s a big thing, coming over here to Los Angeles. He’s never really been here properly before,” Hearn said.

“I think he’s going to be a huge star. More importantly, I think he will become world heavyweight champion.”

Despite preaching patience, Hearn made an ambitious prediction for Atang’s future.

Hearn’s comments make it clear that Matchroom has no intention of rushing Atang. Instead, the promotional company plans to gradually increase the level of competition on both sides of the Atlantic while giving the teenage heavyweight time to develop physically and refine his skills.

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